Tetbury Woolsack Races facts for kids
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The Tetbury Woolsack Races are a super exciting and unique event. They happen every year in the town of Tetbury, Gloucestershire, in England. This special race takes place on the Whitsun Bank Holiday Monday. Imagine hundreds of people gathering along a very steep street called Gumstool Hill. They are there to cheer on brave competitors! These racers carry heavy bags of wool, called woolsacks, on their backs. They race either up, down, or even up and down this challenging hill. It's a truly amazing sight to see!
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What Are the Woolsack Races?
This race is a big test of strength and speed. It takes place between two famous old buildings. One is the Royal Oak pub, located at the bottom of Gumstool Hill. The other is the former Crown pub, which sits right at the top. People can join the race by themselves, or they can be part of a team.
How Do the Races Work?
Individual Challenge
If you race alone, you have to carry your woolsack all the way up the steep hill. It's a tough climb!
Team Challenge
Teams have four members. They work together to race up and down the hill twice. Team members swap places at each end of the course. This means everyone gets a turn carrying the woolsack.
How Heavy Are the Woolsacks?
The weight of the woolsacks depends on who is racing:
- Men race with a 60 lb (about 27 kg) woolsack. That's like carrying a small dog!
- Ladies race with a 30 lb (about 13.6 kg) woolsack.
- Young boys, aged 16 to 18, also race with a 30 lb sack.
- There's even a special race for younger children! Their woolsack is much lighter. It's probably about the same weight as a soft pillow.
Who Competes in the Races?
Many different groups love to take part in the Tetbury Woolsack Races. Regular competitors include strong local rugby teams. Members of the British Army also often join the fun. Even the Norfolk Mountain Rescue Team comes to test their strength and teamwork!
